In a heartfelt interview, Angelina Jolie has shared her profound admiration for the scars left behind by her double mastectomy, which she underwent 13 years ago. The Oscar-winning actress, who made the courageous decision after losing her mother, aunt, and grandmother to cancer, highlights the significance of her journey in a powerful new video with France Inter.
A Journey of Courage
Jolie’s decision to have a double mastectomy in February 2013 was deeply personal. After discovering she carried the BRCA1 gene, which significantly increased her risk of breast cancer, she opted for the preventative procedure, reflecting her desire to protect her health for the sake of her children. Just two months later, she underwent reconstructive surgery and received breast implants.
In a candid moment on the cover of *Time France*, she unveiled her scars for the first time, embracing them as a testament to her resilience and the choices she has made throughout her life.
Embracing Imperfection
In her recent interview, the 50-year-old actress expressed her authentic love for her scars, stating, “I’ve always been someone more interested in the scars and the life that people carry. I’m not drawn to some perfect idea of a life that has no scars.” This sentiment encapsulates her belief that beauty lies not in perfection but in the stories and experiences that shape us.
Jolie’s journey has been one of empowerment, and she previously articulated this in a poignant op-ed written for *The New York Times* shortly after her surgery. “I do not feel any less of a woman,” she wrote, reaffirming her femininity and strength despite the physical changes.
Family First
A devoted mother of six, Jolie sees her scars as a reflection of her commitment to her children. “My scars are a choice I made to do what I could do to stay here as long as I could with my children,” she remarked. This sentiment reveals her deep connection to her family, as she strives to be a present and loving figure in their lives.
Her children—Maddox, Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, Knox, and Vivienne—have grown up seeing their mother as she is, with Jolie ensuring they understand that her scars do not define her. “They can see my small scars and that’s it. Everything else is just Mommy, the same as she always was,” she noted, emphasising that her love for them remains unchanged.
A Voice for Awareness
Jolie’s story transcends her personal experience; it serves as a powerful call to action for women everywhere. By publicly discussing her journey and advocating for increased access to genetic screenings, she hopes to empower others to take charge of their health. Her scars, once a source of pain, have transformed into symbols of hope and resilience, inspiring countless others facing similar battles.
Why it Matters
Angelina Jolie’s candid reflections on her mastectomy scars resonate far beyond her own narrative. They embody a broader conversation about women’s health, the importance of preventative measures, and the acceptance of imperfection in our lives. By embracing her scars, Jolie not only redefines beauty but also encourages women to feel empowered in their choices regarding health and identity. In a world that often prioritises flawlessness, her journey serves as a reminder that strength often lies in our vulnerabilities.
